Work at height

Of the big four accident categories that result in fatalities on site, the term ‘work at height’ accounts for the 2 biggest:

• Falling from height
• Falling objects
• Electrocution
• Crushing

People falling from heights is the biggest killer on site through practices that can be avoided quite simply such as gaps in edge protection, trip hazards on working platforms and the misuse of harness equipment.

The second most common occurrence of fatality arises from objects that fall from above. These enhances the message that hard hat should not be dismissed as an annoyance and play a critical role in protecting operatives where work is commencing above. On the other end of the equation, those of us who work at height must remain vigilant on ensuring that suitable edge protection including toe-boards, brick guards or netting is securely in place to prevent our tools and materials falling from the working platform onto those below. The use of tool lanyards and tool belts should also be utilised.